Get out there. Meet people: That’s what you’re likely to hear when you’re down in the dumps, and it’s solid advice. But that strategy may be much less effective when we’re feeling more than just a case of the blues.

William R. Yates, MD, is a physician trained in family medicine and psychiatry. His research has been funded by the National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. He has authored or co-authored over 100 scientific manuscripts on addiction and other brain disorders. His personal blog, "Brain Posts," aims to translate neuroscience research into better care for brain disorders. Wefollow.com rates…